I figured it was time to provide an update on the humble abode. In the past three months, I installed a dishwasher, outfitted my garage with door opener, and replaced the condenser fan in the refrigerator.
Actually, I had to call Tyrone (handy-man) to assist with the garage and dishwasher. The electrical and plumbing was fairly straight forward, but I have realized that two heads are always better than one. The garage modification required cutting out some of the structural members of the roof and replacing with 2x4x8. I did not help with job. I decided that I could make better use of my time. Let's call it "Opportunity Costs".
Well, the condenser fan replacement took all of 10 minutes. Basically, the freezer worked fine, but the upper portion or food storage area was not getting cold. After taking off the panel in freezer area I realized that the fan only worked sporadically. You really did not need to know anything about HVAC, to figure out the fan must push the cold air to the upper portion. So, I spent $39.95 and replaced it. Works like a charm. I also learned that Kenmore is not a brand per-se. Essentially, it is a network of vendors that support Sears. Whirlpool, Maytag, etc. Use that in your next trivial pursuit ..
Welcome to homeownership! This is routine stuff that incidentally, occurs more frequently as the house ages. Once piece of advice that may save you some money over the long term is to purchase a home warranty. For a few hundred dollars a year all your major appliances, heating/ plumbing/ electrical are covered for repairs/replacement. You pay a small service fee (for the technicians visit) anytime you need something fixed. If they cant fix it they will replace it.. (i.e. a furnace replacement can save you thousands). I highly recommend you look into this especially being as "frugal" as you are!
Charlene
Yeah, I have the home insurance and I'm considering using it to replace my hot water heater. Hmm.. Now that I think about it, I'll probably save $$ replacing it myself ;)